According to this expert this quality will improve a person’s cognitive abilities

According to this expert this quality will improve a person’s cognitive abilities

Self-control, often seen as a simple property to resist temptation, plays a far more important role in our lives.

According to psychology professor Bobby Hoffman in an article in psychologytodayThis ability to delay gratification can not only strengthen our emotional resiliency, but also protect our brain from cognitive decline. Quality is accessible to everyone at any age.

a workout for the brain

The famous marshmallow experiment, where children choose between immediate pleasure or a future reward, reveals much more than just a question of patience. This represents real mental training. Every time we prioritize long-term gains, we activate brain areas like the prefrontal cortex, which are responsible for planning and impulse control. Over time, these exercises strengthen key neural circuits, promoting greater cognitive flexibility in the face of aging.

Studies show that delaying gratification stimulates “cooling strategies” in the brain focused on rationality. These same mechanisms create a cognitive reserve, capable of slowing the appearance of symptoms of mental decline, such as those associated with Alzheimer’s. By strengthening these habits, we contribute to a stronger and more efficient brain.

A vision focused on the future

Projecting into the future, also called “future time perspective” (FTP), is another important factor. People who see their future clearly often make healthier decisions, such as eating a balanced diet or maintaining regular physical activity. These options also strengthen brain health.

Although this quality can be developed from childhood, it is never too late to acquire it. Simple strategies, such as setting specific goals or monitoring your progress, allow anyone to improve their self-control. With practice, these efforts become lasting habits that shape our mental and emotional resilience.

The link between physical activity and self-control

Physical activity plays an important role in maintaining cognitive functions. By combining self-control and sports habits, we create a virtuous cycle where each good decision boosts our mental and physical health.

Each choice to delay gratification strengthens the brain’s self-regulatory abilities. These benefits compound over time, providing lasting protection against the cognitive challenges of aging.